In Algeria, trachoma — the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness — has been eliminated as a public health problem after decades of sustained national effort.
“This milestone proves that with sustained political will and on-the-ground leadership, we can eliminate neglected tropical diseases,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization.
The achievement makes Algeria the 10th country in Africa and 29th globally to reach this goal. Once responsible for blindness or visual impairment in millions, trachoma spreads through infection and poor sanitation conditions. Algeria’s success was driven by the WHO-recommended SAFE strategy—combining surgery, antibiotics, hygiene promotion and improved access to clean water—alongside nationwide healthcare expansion and targeted action in high-risk regions. With elimination thresholds confirmed and surveillance continuing, the country now offers a powerful example of how long-term, coordinated public health efforts can defeat even deeply entrenched diseases.
